Anybody can swing a sword and beat up bad guys, but the swashbuckler does it with panache. While the term was originally used to describe swordsmen, its current usage has more to do with a hero’s style than his weapon of choice. In addition to being incredibly skilled (and knowing it), the swashbuckler is known for his courage, wit. Most swashbucklers believe strongly in fairness, justice, and honor, though some go to great lengths to hide this fact.

Likely Stories

Swashbucklers are most common in fantasy and historical games, especially those that take place from the Renaissance to the Age of Sail when light swords were the weapon of the day. Swashbucklers are also often found in pulp adventures, super-hero stories, and space operas.

The Name Game

Swashbuckler are often members of the noble class, and will have names and possibly titles appropriate to their station in life. Because of their strong sense of justice, swashbucklers often find themselves working against those in power, which can be hazardous to one’s health and reputation. For this reason, some swashbucklers often operate incognito under an assumed name, much like comic book super-heroes.

The Numbers

Swashbucklers should generally have good scores in all three Words. A good Body score give them the athletic ability necessary to perform the flashy acrobatic and amazing physical feats common in swashbuckling fiction. A high Brain Number reflects the swashbuckler’s wit and resourcefulness. Finally, because they are so courageous and daring, swashbucklers should have a good Nerve Number.

Tag Line: “We are men of action. Lies do not become us.”—Westley, The Princess Bride

Tools of the Trade: His weapon of choice, his courage, his intellect, and maybe some rope.

Where You'll Find Him: Wherever there is adventure to be had, rights to be wronged, and damsels to be rescued.

Social Circle: Swashbucklers often have a band of co-conspirators who assist them in their work, either by participating in their adventures or providing them with information and aid along the way. When not swashbuckling, they can often be found in the company of the very people who they’re working against—nobles, wealthy landowners, corrupt politicians, and the like.

Sample Character

Oliver Queen (Green Arrow)

Body: 15

Brain: 12

Nerve: 16

Job: Millionaire Industrialist (13)

Gimmick: World’s Greatest Archer (16)

Weakness: Dames (16)

Skills: Trick Arrows +3; Acrobatics +2; Conspiracy Theory +1

WWPHTIM? Cary Elwes

Dumb Fact: During the Adams and O’Neil run, would have the Gimmick “Always Right” with a rather high Number.